Winemaker's Notes:

PrimaVoce, named for the leading voice in an opera, expresses the richness of the Tuscan terroir and the continuing legacy of the Tenuta di Arceno estate. This blend balances the elegance of Merlot with the richness and power of Cabernet Sauvignon.

The nose first exudes cedar, fresh vanilla root and a hint of ginger, followed by aromas of ripe plums and white chocolate. Tannins are soft, silky and balanced and lead to an explosion of candied cherries on the palate. The long lingering finish of forest floor, earth and spice transports you to our Tenuta di Arceno vineyards in autumn, as they reveal and express their terroir.

72% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Syrah

My Notes:

About Tenuta di Arceno:

Tenuta di Arceno's history stretches back to the time of the Etruscans who dominated central Italy prior to the formation of the Roman Empire. The Ambra River, which flows to Florence, and the Ombrone river, which flows to the Mediterranean, formed the nucleus of the ancient civilization. Still today, these two important rivers flow on either side of the Tenuta di Arceno estate. Located at the historical birthplace of its culture, it is not surprising to find that the word Arceno has as its root, the Etruscan word arché meaning origin point.

The Tenuta di Arceno estate lies in the hills of the Chianti region in central Tuscany between Florence and Siena, near Castelnuovo Berardenga. Tuscany is home to Italy's most renowned wines. Among them are the Super Tuscans, referred to as such due to their superior quality and position outside of official premium wine designations. The Tenuta di Arceno estate produces a variety of Super Tuscans including Arcanum I and Arcanum II.

From its roots in the Etruscan civilization, its ownership by the wealthy and respected Taja family, its sale to one of the most illustrious families of Siena, the Piccolominis, and finally to its acquisition by Jess Jackson and Barbara Banke in 1994, the history of Tenuta di Arceno unfolds, long and sinuous in time